The role of social and demographic variables in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. the experience of "Azienda Ospedaliera San Giovanni Battista di Torino"
Siliquini, R.; Minniti, D.; Silvestre, C.; Rocca, N.; Renga, G.
Annali di Igiene Medicina Preventiva e di Comunita 17(6): 519-528
2005
ISSN/ISBN: 1120-9135 PMID: 16523711 Document Number: 590698
Health resources rationalization needs a carefull control on appropriateness and equity safeguard. For some diseases (f.i. acute cardiovascular diseases) the delivery of effective but resources consuming treatment could be influenced by socio-demographic variables. Aim of this work is to evaluate the effects of age and gender on the course of supplying effective treatments. 386 clinical records (among the 4317 eligible) have been randomized and analized using a protocol designed ad hoc on former international experiences basis. Diagnostic interventions are not statistically related to patient's age and gender but the major use of therapeutic interventions analized (CABG, PTCA, AVR, trombolisis) in younger patients is consistent with their more healthy general conditions even if the 'conservativE behavior of physicians in oldest patients don't seem to be based on EB procedures or specific Guidelines.